Gateron Mini i vs. Outemu Cream Blue
An in-depth look at the Gateron Mini i and the Outemu Cream Blue switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing between mechanical keyboard switches, the Gateron Mini i and the Outemu Cream Blue offer distinct options for different preferences. The Gateron Mini i is a tactile switch that prides itself on providing a subtle and gentle keystroke with a muted sound profile, making it perfect for office settings where quiet professionalism is key. On the other hand, the Outemu Cream Blue is a clicky switch that offers a more pronounced feedback with an audible click, ideal for those who enjoy the satisfying sound of typing. Both switches have their own unique qualities that cater to different needs and preferences. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the best switch for you.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
40g
Actuation force
50g
Bottom-out force
50g
Bottom-out force
65g
Pre-travel
1.40 mm
Pre-travel
2.20 mm
Total travel
3.40 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Partial box
Stem material
POM
Stem material
POM
Top housing material
Nylon
Top housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
22mm double-stage spring
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
Both the Gateron Mini i and the Outemu Cream Blue feature nylon top and bottom housings, providing a deep and fuller sound profile when typing. The use of nylon as a housing material allows for sound absorption, resulting in a duller and rounder sound compared to switches with harder plastic housings. This commonality in housing material ensures that both switches offer a similar typing experience in terms of sound and feel.
While both switches share the same nylon housing material for both the top and bottom housings, the individual components may still differ in terms of their impact on typing experience. The bottom housing plays a significant role in the bottom-out sound and feel when a key is pressed, affecting the overall typing experience. On the other hand, the top housing influences the sound when a key is released, adding to the overall tactile feedback of the switch. Despite these differences, the overall sound profile and typing experience of the Gateron Mini i and Outemu Cream Blue remain similar due to their shared use of nylon housing material.
In conclusion, the Gateron Mini i and the Outemu Cream Blue demonstrate the importance of housing material in determining the sound profile and tactile feedback of mechanical switches. Both switches utilize nylon for their top and bottom housings, resulting in a deeper and fuller sound profile that is characteristic of switches made with this material. While there may be slight differences in the impact of the top and bottom housings on typing experience, users can expect a similar overall typing experience from both switches due to their shared use of nylon housing material.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Gateron Mini i tactile switch and the Outemu Cream Blue clicky switch, it is clear that the Mini i is the lighter option. The Mini i has an actuation force of 40 grams and a bottom out force of 50 grams, making it a lighter option overall. On the other hand, the Cream Blue has an actuation force of 50 grams and a bottom out force of 65 grams, making it a medium-heavy choice. These differences in force can have a significant impact on the typing experience for users. Those who prefer a lighter touch may find the Mini i more comfortable for extended typing sessions, while those who enjoy a more substantial push may gravitate towards the Cream Blue for a more tactile typing experience. Ultimately, the choice between these two switches will come down to personal preference in terms of typing feel and force requirements.
Travel distance
The Gateron Mini i tactile switch has a travel distance of 3.4mm, which is shorter than the Outemu Cream Blue clicky switch with a travel distance of 4mm. The difference of 0.6mm may seem small, but it can make a noticeable impact on the overall typing experience. The Mini i's shorter travel distance may appeal to those seeking a quicker response time, such as gamers, while the Cream Blue's longer travel distance may provide a more satisfying tactile feedback for those who prefer a deeper keystroke sensation. Both switches offer unique benefits based on their travel distances, so the choice ultimately comes down to personal preference and typing style.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
For 10 switches, the Gateron Mini i comes in at $6.00, whereas the Outemu Cream Blue comes in at $3.10.
Here at Milktooth, we offer the best prices on switches (on average, 27% lower the competition). In addition, we offer free shipping on orders over $49.00. We also offer free returns and exchanges, so you can shop with guaranteed satisfaction.
That said, while price is an important piece of the puzzle, our opinion is that you should ultimately pick the option that most suits your unique preferences since you’ll be using these switches for years to come. In other words, finding something perfect for you is, in our view, the most important criteria.
Typing experience
When it comes to sound, the Gateron Mini i tactile switch offers a neutral sound profile, making it suitable for various environments and users. The Cream Blue clicky switch, on the other hand, does not have a specific sound description available. Both switches will likely provide satisfying auditory feedback during typing sessions, with the Mini i being more muted and the Cream Blue presumably offering a louder click.
In terms of feel, the Gateron Mini i tactile switch is described as bouncy, easy-to-press, mild, snappy, subtle, and stepped. These qualities suggest a switch that provides a lively and comfortable typing experience with gentle resistance and a responsive feel. The Outemu Cream Blue clicky switch does not have a specific feel description available, but its clicky nature implies a tactile feedback that may be more pronounced compared to the Mini i.
Overall, if you are looking for a switch with a neutral sound profile, gentle tactility, and a comfortable typing experience, the Gateron Mini i tactile switch would be a suitable choice for office or quiet environments. On the other hand, if you prefer a switch with a clicky sound and potentially more pronounced tactile feedback, the Outemu Cream Blue clicky switch may be more to your liking. Both switches offer unique qualities that cater to different preferences, so choosing between them will depend on your personal typing preferences and environment considerations.
Conclusion
To sum up, when deciding between the Gateron Mini i tactile switch and the Outemu Cream Blue clicky switch, you should consider your typing environment and preference. If you are looking for a switch that offers a lightweight, gentle tactility and a quiet typing experience suitable for office use, the Gateron Mini i may be the better choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a switch with a medium-heavy bottom out force and enjoy the audible click sound, the Outemu Cream Blue switch could be more to your liking. Ultimately, your decision should be based on what feels most comfortable and enjoyable for your typing needs.
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